Before Buying Used Mazda CX-5
Before Buying Used Mazda CX-5
At Auto Buyers Guide, we know that if you are looking to buy used suv, the used mazda cx 5 is likely your top pick for its reliability and "Soul Red" style. However, even with its high praise, there are specific mechanical quirks you need to watch for. Not every mazda cx5 used on the market has been treated with the care a Skyactiv engine requires.
A Short History of the Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 story in Australia is split into two distinct chapters: the KE series (2012–2017) and the more refined KF series (2017–Present).
While the early KE models were groundbreaking, the 2017 update (KF) significantly improved cabin insulation—fixing the "road noise" issues that plagued the original. In 2019, Mazda added the punchy 2.5L Turbo petrol engine and finally introduced Apple CarPlay. A major 2022 facelift sharpened the LED lighting and improved the seats, while 2024 saw the discontinuation of the diesel engine, leaving a refined, petrol-only lineup for the 2025 model year.
Used Mazda CX-5 Checklist: Quick Inspection
Before you sign the papers on a used mazda cx 5, run through this specialized Auto Buyers Guide checklist:
- Folding Side Mirrors: Cycle the mirrors 3–4 times. The internal plastic gears are a common failure point; if they stutter or fail to fold, it's an expensive fix outside of warranty.
- The "Coolant" Smell: On 2018–2020 2.5L models, sniff around the front of the engine after a test drive. A sweet, syrupy smell can indicate a cracked cylinder head—a rare but known issue.
- Infotainment "Ghost Touch": While parked, watch the screen. If it starts selecting menus or "clicking" by itself, the digitizer is failing.
- Brake Rotor Warp: Firmly apply the brakes from 80km/h. If the steering wheel wobbles, the rotors are warped—a very common complaint on mazda cx5 used examples.
- Transmission Whine: Listen for a high-pitched "whistle" or whine during acceleration between 40km/h and 70km/h. This can indicate early bearing wear in the 6-speed auto.
Mazda CX-5 Years to Avoid & Common Problems
When shoppers ask about mazda cx 5 years to avoid, we usually point toward the early diesels and the first-run units of the KF series. Use the table below to navigate the mazda cx-5 years to avoid:
| Era | Status | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| 2012–2015 | High Risk (Diesel) | Early 2.2L diesels suffered from severe carbon buildup and oil dilution. Petrols are generally safe. |
| 2016 | Caution | High reports of LED daytime running light failures and infotainment "boot loops." |
| 2017–2018 | The Best Value | The start of the "quiet" KF series. Check that the fuel pump recall has been completed. |
| 2019–2021 | Highly Recommended | Features the updated dashboard and standard smartphone mirroring. The most balanced pick for a buy used suv. |
| 2022–2025 | The Premium Pick | Best suspension tuning and improved seat comfort. Essentially a "new" car experience. |
Is the Mazda CX-5 Reliable?
The consensus is "Yes," but with one major caveat: Stick to the petrol.
- The Skyactiv-G Petrols (2.0L & 2.5L): These are among the most reliable engines in the world. They use a traditional 6-speed automatic rather than a CVT, which provides a more direct feel and better long-term durability.
- The Skyactiv-D Diesel (2.2L): Unless you are doing 30,000km+ of highway driving a year, avoid the diesel. Short city trips cause the DPF to clog and can lead to expensive engine "sludging."
- Maintenance: Mazda engines are high-compression and require high-quality oil. Always check the logbook for 12-month/10,000km service intervals (note: some later models moved to 15,000km).
Is the Mazda CX-5 a Good Choice for Families?
The mazda cx5 is often called the "driver's choice," but it has some practical limits:
- Boot Space: At roughly 440 litres, it is noticeably smaller than a Toyota RAV4 or Kia Sportage. It's enough for a pram, but you'll struggle with a week's worth of camping gear.
- Rear Seat Room: Legroom is slightly tighter than its rivals. If you have tall teenagers, they might find the back seat a bit snug.
- The "Premium" Edge: Where it wins is the interior. The soft-touch materials and ergonomic layout make it feel like a luxury vehicle, which helps maintain its high resale value
If you want to buy used SUV that feels like a premium product without the luxury car maintenance costs, a used Mazda CX 5 (ideally 2019 or newer) is a fantastic investment. By avoiding the Mazda CX 5 years to avoid listed above, you are likely to enjoy years of trouble-free, "Zoom-Zoom" motoring.
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